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D&D 5e spell changes

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This page describes any changes that have been made to the rules of certain spells in Baldur's Gate 3 (BG3), from their original specifications in Dungeons and Dragons 5th Edition 2014 (D&D 5e 2014).

The rule changes described on this and related pages are written with the assumption the reader understands the relevant D&D 5e rule.

These pages do not explain what the D&D 5e rule is, only what the changed or altered BG3 rule is.

These pages also include many BG3 features and abilities which are unchanged from D&D 5e to help a D&D 5e player quickly see which options have changed and which have not, and make decisions without having to do additional research. If the BG3 rule aligns with a rule from the 2024 5e revision or other material from future playtests, it is considered a rule change from D&D 5e.

The changes listed below also ignore differences which are the result of bugs, some of which are quite substantial.

General[edit section | visual editor]

  • As with everything else in BG3, spells use British spelling, e.g., Mage ArmourMage Armour.
  • In the same turn, a character can use both their action and bonus action to cast non-cantrip spells.
    • Example: FireballFireball (action) and Misty StepMisty Step (bonus action) can be cast during the same turn.
  • No spells have a somatic component. A character can cast spells without a free hand, such as while wielding a weapon and wearing a shield.
  • All spells have an implicit verbal component and cannot be cast while SilencedSilenced, unless the spell description specifically mentions it can be cast while Silenced.
  • No spells have a material component. There are no component pouches or spellcasting foci in the game.
    • To cast spells from the BardBard spell list, bards either use their equipped musical instrument or whistle. This visually acts as a spellcasting focus.
  • All spells have a casting time of a single Action, Bonus Action or Reaction. Some spells which have a longer casting time in D&D 5e have been modified so that they cannot be cast in combat.
    • Spells which involve a weapon attack and cost a bonus action in most cases act like a paladin's Divine SmiteDivine Smite, in that resources (including the bonus action) are only spent if the attack hits.
    • Ritual Spell Icon.png Ritual spells are always cast as a ritual when cast outside of combat, and ritual casting does not increase the casting time. Some spells which are not ritual spells in 5E have become so (see below).
  • Ranges and areas are specified in metres. These can be displayed as an equivalent (rounded) number of feet by setting the relevant game option.
    • This results in some dimensions being slightly larger or smaller. For example, 15 ft cones become 5 m (17 ft) cones, whereas 15 ft spheres and cubes usually become 13 ft (4 m) spheres.
  • Combat areas tend to have a large amount of verticality, but are rather small in horizontal size. This has led to many spells having a reduced range. All but one (Dimension DoorDimension Door) have a range of at most 60 ft (18 m).
    • Spells with a range of Touch have been changed to a range of 5 ft (1.5 m).
  • All spell durations are either until taking a Long Rest, or are measured in rounds (up to 10 rounds).
    • Most spells with a duration of more than one minute in D&D 5E have been modified to last until taking a Long Rest.
  • Scrolls can be used by any character, regardless of their class, level or mental ability scores. No ability check is needed to successfully cast a scroll.
  • A character with at least one level in WizardWizard can transcribe scrolls of any level up to which they have spell slots. For example, a character with 1 level in Wizard and 3 levels in ClericCleric can learn level 2 wizard spells by transcribing them from scrolls, since their effective spellcasting level is 3, granting them Level 2 Spell Slots.
  • Cantrips get their second upgrade when reaching level 10 instead of level 11, e.g., Fire BoltFire Bolt deals 3d10 damage by level 10. The only exception is Booming BladeBooming Blade, which gets its final upgrade at level 11 instead.
  • No spells of 7th level or higher are available, as 7th level spell slots are generally first acquired at class level 13 and BG3's level cap is 12. Similarly, no spells of 6th level list any upcasting benefits.
  • Summoning spells such as Conjure ElementalConjure Elemental or Animate DeadAnimate Dead which last more than one minute do not require ConcentrationConcentration and last until the next Long Rest. It is possible for one character to have multiple summons actively out at once, as long as each was summoned from a different spell.
    • Several spells which create mobile effects, such as Mage HandMage Hand, create summoned creatures. These have their own initiative, ability scores, AC, saving throws, hit points, and actions. As such, they move on their own initiative rather than having to use the caster's actions, and can be defeated in combat.
  • ConcentrationConcentration on a spell is automatically broken, without a saving throw, if the caster becomes ProneProne for any reason.
    • The lack of a saving throw for this makes knocking a spellcaster over often a more reliable way of breaking their concentration than damaging them.
  • Spells which allow multiple attack rolls against separate targets (such as Scorching RayScorching Ray, or Eldritch BlastEldritch Blast at level 5+) require all of the targets to be selected before casting the spell. As clarified in the Sage Advice Compendium, in 5E the caster is allowed to target, roll, and resolve each attack separately before choosing the target for the next one.

Reaction spells[edit section | visual editor]

When choosing whether to use a reaction, players have access to more information than they normally would in D&D 5E. For example:

  • When choosing whether to use a reaction that can modify the result of an attack roll or impose advantage or disadvantage, the player is told the result of the attack roll, the required roll needed for a hit, and whether the attack roll was a critical hit or miss.
  • One can choose to use a reaction that imposes advantage or disadvantage after the check or save is first rolled.
  • When choosing whether to use a reaction that can modify the result of another creature's spell, the player is told the name of the spell being cast, whether or not it was upcast, the spell DC, and the result of any saving throw (if applicable).
    • The spell description does not show its upcasted level, but astute observation allows one to work around this if they know the original spell's effect compared with the upcast effect. Example: Ray of SicknessRay of Sickness deals 2d8PoisonPoison at level 1, but if the spell's description shows it dealing 5d8PoisonPoison, one can surmise it was upcast to level 4.
    • No ArcanaArcana check is needed to identify the spell being cast.

Cantrips[edit section | visual editor]

Changes to cantrips
Spell name Range and

duration changes

Other changes
Acid SplashAcid Splash Does not target, instead AoE: 2 m (7 ft) Radius AoE: 2 m (7 ft) Radius. -
Blade WardBlade Ward - Added to the ClericCleric spell list. While the spell's description says two turns, it is effectively until the end of the caster's next turn. This is because the spell's duration includes the turn on which it was cast.
Bone ChillBone Chill - Renamed (the 5E name is Chill Touch, which is misleading since its range is not touch and it does not deal cold damage). Undead have disadvantage on attacks against any target for a round.

Prevents the target from using the HelpHelp action to assist a DownedDowned character.

Booming BladeBooming Blade - Initiates or is used as part of an attack action, so additional attacks can be made before or after casting if the caster has Extra AttackExtra Attack.
Dancing LightsDancing Lights Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft).

Increased AoE: 9 m (30 ft) Radius AoE: 9 m (30 ft) Radius.

Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest (ConcentrationConcentration).

Only creates one light. The entire area is bright light. Cannot be moved by the caster.
Eldritch BlastEldritch Blast Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft). -
Fire BoltFire Bolt Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft). -
FriendsFriends - Caster loses 10 reputation with whomever they cast Friends on when the spell ends in Balanced difficulty and above. This can sometimes be avoided by casting Friends while under effects of Disguise SelfDisguise Self, except against playable Origins.
GuidanceGuidance - The bonus is automatically applied to all applicable checks until the spell ends. Using it again resets the duration and does not end the spell. It can be (re)cast during conversation without consequence.
LightLight Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest.

Increased AoE: 7.5 m (25 ft) Radius AoE: 7.5 m (25 ft) Radius.

The entire area is bright light.
Mage HandMage Hand Increased Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft).

Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest for Arcane Tricksters.

Can only be cast once per short rest. The hand is a summoned creature which can use the ShoveShove and ThrowThrow actions. If it is invisible, its invisibility is on the same basis as the spell InvisibilityInvisibility (albeit with unlimited duration), so for example it becomes visible after it picks a pocket.
Minor IllusionMinor Illusion Increased Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft). Does not break stealth to cast. The spell is limited to making a distraction which NPCs may move or turn towards to investigate. The illusion is limited only to a cat that meows once.
Poison SprayPoison Spray - -
Produce FlameProduce Flame Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest.

Increased AoE: 9 m (30 ft) Radius AoE: 9 m (30 ft) Radius.

Added to the ClericCleric spell list. All of the area is bright light.
Ray of FrostRay of Frost - Can freeze a WaterWater or BloodBlood surface to become an IceIce surface. Hitting a target standing on such a surface will also freeze said surface and force everyone standing in it to roll a Dexterity saving throw or be knocked prone.
ResistanceResistance - The bonus to saving throws is automatically applied to all applicable saving throws until the spell ends. Using it once does not end the spell. Can be used in conversations when a dialogue choice triggers a saving throw.
Sacred FlameSacred Flame - -
ShillelaghShillelagh - -
Shocking GraspShocking Grasp - Can target objects as well as creatures.
ThaumaturgyThaumaturgy Reduced Range: Self Range: Self. Grants advantage on IntimidationIntimidation and PerformancePerformance checks. Can be used during a conversation if an option using one of these skills is selected.
Thorn WhipThorn Whip - -
True StrikeTrue Strike Increased Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft). While the spell's description says two turns, it is effectively until the end of the caster's next turn. This is because the spell's duration includes the turn on which it was cast. Affects the next attack regardless of which turn it is on.
Vicious MockeryVicious Mockery - The spell causes the caster to make a verbal quip which is voice acted, chosen randomly from a list of several.

First level spells[edit section | visual editor]

Changes to first level spells
Spell name Range and

duration changes

Other changes
Animal FriendshipAnimal Friendship Increased Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft).

Reduced Duration Icons.png Duration: 10 turns.

Once the spell ends, the creature knows it was charmed and might attack the spellcaster.
Armour of AgathysArmour of Agathys Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest. -
Arms of HadarArms of Hadar - -
BaneBane - -
BlessBless - -
Burning HandsBurning Hands Increased AoE: 5 m (17 ft) Cone AoE: 5 m (17 ft) Cone. -
Charm PersonCharm Person Increased Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft).

Reduced Duration Icons.png Duration: 10 turns.

On Explorer and higher difficulty the caster loses reputation with whomever this spell is cast on when the spell ends. This can sometimes be avoided by casting Charm Person while under the effects of Disguise SelfDisguise Self.
Chromatic OrbChromatic Orb Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft).

AoE: 2 m (7 ft) Radius AoE: 2 m (7 ft) Radius.

The spell only deals 3d8 damage if thunderthunder damage is selected. If one chooses any of the other damage types, it deals 2d8 damage to the target and creates a relevant surface in the AOE at the target's feet.
Colour SprayColour Spray - Hit point total fixed at 33 hp + 11 hp per upcast level (the average of 6d10+2d10 per level).
CommandCommand - The only available options are the ones listed in the spell's description. Except for Command: DropCommand: Drop, the affected creature cannot take actions or reactions.
  • In particular, they cannot Dash if commanded to Approach or Flee.
Compelled DuelCompelled Duel Reduced Duration Icons.png Duration: 3 turns. The spell does not restrict the caster's actions or movement.

If cast by an enemy on a player-controlled character, control of the target character is lost and they spend their turns attacking the caster to the best of their ability.

Create or Destroy WaterCreate or Destroy Water AoE: 4 m (13 ft) Radius AoE: 4 m (13 ft) Radius + 2 m (7 ft) per upcast level. The option to fill or destroy water from a container is not implemented. Create Water creates a WaterWater surface and causes creatures in the area to acquire the WetWet condition, while Destroy Water removes Water and GreaseGrease surfaces and the Wet condition. Create Water also removes blood and dirt from characters and puts out fires.
Cure WoundsCure Wounds - -
Disguise SelfDisguise Self Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest. This became a Ritual Spell Icon.png ritual spell. Caster must choose from 32 preset appearances, none of which resemble any of the game's NPCs. Using a disguise of a small enough size category allows an affected character to access areas that only smaller creatures normally can, and the disguise can allow for magical effects which depend on race such as the Dwarven Thrower, making it function more like a weak version of True Polymorph.
Dissonant WhispersDissonant Whispers - Inflicts the FrightenedFrightened condition, which immobilizes the creature.
Divine FavourDivine Favour Reduced Duration Icons.png Duration: 3 turns. -
Enhance LeapEnhance Leap - Renamed from 'Jump' to avoid confusion with the action JumpJump. Became a Ritual Spell Icon.png ritual spell. Only affects the caster's base jump distance. Any other modifiers which increase jump distance (such as the benefits of Athlete and Advanced Unarmoured Movement) are not tripled.
Ensnaring StrikeEnsnaring Strike - This is part of the attack action, and only consumes the bonus action and spell slot if the attack hits. The HelpHelp action automatically frees the target with no check required.
EntangleEntangle AoE: 3 m (10 ft) Radius AoE: 3 m (10 ft) Radius (circle). Creatures can be restrained each turn they are in the spell area.
Expeditious RetreatExpeditious Retreat Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest (ConcentrationConcentration). -
Faerie FireFaerie Fire AoE: 6 m (20 ft) Radius AoE: 6 m (20 ft) Radius (circle). Although the visual effect is applied to objects in the target area, it provides no actual benefit, as attacks against objects automatically hit in BG3.
False LifeFalse Life Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest. Grants a flat 7 temporary hit points (average of 1d4+4 rounded up). Upcasting is unchanged.
Feather FallFeather Fall Reduced AoE: 9 m (30 ft) Radius AoE: 9 m (30 ft) Radius. Feather fall becomes a Bonus Action to cast in most scenarios, meaning it has to be cast before it's needed, but there are some cutscenes where one may use the spell as well. Became a Ritual Spell Icon.png ritual spell.
Find FamiliarFind Familiar - Casting time is instant, and can only be cast while out of combat.

Limited to cat, crab, frog, rat, raven, and spider unless a class feature like Pact of the Chain grants additional options. The caster can also directly control the familiar. It can attack (which does not use the caster's reaction), and have special moves with unique effects. It cannot deliver the caster's touch spells.

Fog CloudFog Cloud Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft).

Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest (ConcentrationConcentration).

Decreased AoE: 4.5 m (15 ft) Radius AoE: 4.5 m (15 ft) Radius + 2 m (7 ft) per upcast level.

The cloud cannot be dispersed by wind.
GoodberryGoodberry Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest. Only 4 berries are summoned, but they each restore 1d4 hit points rather than just 1, and can be eaten as a bonus action rather than an action.
GreaseGrease AoE: 4 m (13 ft) Radius AoE: 4 m (13 ft) Radius GreaseGrease surface. The grease can be set on fire, which turns it into a FireFire surface (dealing damage to creatures and objects in it) and also ends the spell. It can also be washed away with water from any source.
Guiding BoltGuiding Bolt Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft). -
Hail of ThornsHail of Thorns Slightly increased AoE: 2 m (7 ft) Radius AoE: 2 m (7 ft) Radius. Concentration is not required. Does not function with Extra Attack, unlike other spells which involve a weapon attack.
Healing WordHealing Word - -
Hellish RebukeHellish Rebuke Unlimited range. -
HexHex Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest (ConcentrationConcentration).

Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft).

-
Hunter's MarkHunter's Mark Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest (ConcentrationConcentration).

Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft).

-
Ice KnifeIce Knife Slightly increased AoE: 2 m (7 ft) Radius AoE: 2 m (7 ft) Radius. Creates an IceIce surface in the affected area.
Inflict WoundsInflict Wounds - -
LongstriderLongstrider Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest. Became a Ritual spell. Uniquely among BG3 spells, it can be cast at a higher level when ritual casting.
Mage ArmourMage Armour Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest. -
Magic MissileMagic Missile Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft). -
Protection from Evil and GoodProtection from Evil and Good Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest (ConcentrationConcentration). The spell negates existing conditions. Despite the tooltip, it does not help against CharmedCharmed.
Ray of SicknessRay of Sickness - The target gets a saving throw against the PoisonedPoisoned condition.

While the spell's description says two turns, it is effectively until the end of the caster's next turn. This is because the spell's duration includes the turn on which it was cast.

SanctuarySanctuary Increased Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft). Enemies cannot target the warded creature for the duration of the spell and they are not permitted a save to attack the protected creature. If the warded creature attacks, they get the Sanctuary BlockedSanctuary Blocked condition for 1 turn, which prevents them for being targeted by this spell.
Searing SmiteSearing Smite - This is part of the attack action; it only consumes the bonus action and spell slot if the attack connects.
ShieldShield - There is no prompt for the reaction unless the additional AC will make the attack miss.
Shield of FaithShield of Faith Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest (ConcentrationConcentration). -
SleepSleep Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft).

Reduced Duration Icons.png Duration: 2 turns.

Hit point total fixed at 24 hp + 8 hp per upcast level. This is slightly more than the average of 5d8+2d8/level at 1st and 2nd level, and slightly less at 3rd level and higher.
Speak with AnimalsSpeak with Animals Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest. Owlbears are classified as beasts in BG3, so this spell allows the caster to communicate with them.
Tasha's Hideous LaughterTasha's Hideous Laughter Increased Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft).
Thunderous SmiteThunderous Smite - This is part of the attack action, and only consumes the bonus action and spell slot if the attack connects. Unlike the other Smite spells, Thunderous Smite does not require concentration, since BG3 applies that to the persistent effect, which this spell does not have. The target always gets pushed back 10 feet on hit, and the save is only to resist falling prone.
ThunderwaveThunderwave Slightly increased AoE: 5 m (17 ft) Cube AoE: 5 m (17 ft) Cube. -
Witch BoltWitch Bolt Increased Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft). -
Wrathful SmiteWrathful Smite Reduced Duration Icons.png Duration: 2 turns (ConcentrationConcentration). This is part of the attack action, and only consumes the bonus action and spell slot if the attack connects. The target cannot use an action to remove the condition.

Second level spells[edit section | visual editor]

Changes to second level spells
Spell name Range and

duration changes

Other changes
AidAid Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest.

Doesn't target, instead AoE: 9 m (30 ft) Radius AoE: 9 m (30 ft) Radius.

DownedDowned allies heal an additional 1 hit point, similar to a HelpHelp action.
Arcane LockArcane Lock Reduced Duration Icons.png Duration: 10 turns. Renders the target immune to the KnockKnock spell.
BarkskinBarkskin Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest (ConcentrationConcentration). -
BlindnessBlindness Increased Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft). Deafness is not an option; the target can only be BlindedBlinded.
BlurBlur - -
Branding SmiteBranding Smite - This is part of the attack action, and only consume the bonus action and spell slot if the attack lands. The concentration is to maintain the Branding SmiteBranding Smite condition on the target.
Calm EmotionsCalm Emotions - The spell only includes the option to make humanoids in the area immune to the FrightenedFrightened and CharmedCharmed conditions. It also affects non-humanoids and deactivates (and prevents further activation of) the Rage ability used by BarbarianBarbarians and certain other creatures.
Cloud of DaggersCloud of Daggers Slightly increased AoE: 2 m (7 ft) Radius AoE: 2 m (7 ft) Radius (circle). -
Crown of MadnessCrown of Madness Duration is reduced to three rounds. Does not require the caster to use their action to control the target. The target automatically attacks the closest creature to them.
DarknessDarkness Reduced Duration Icons.png Duration: 10 turns. Can only be targetted on a point, and cannot target an object. -
DarkvisionDarkvision Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest.

Decreased AoE: 12 m (40 ft) Radius AoE: 12 m (40 ft) Radius.

The decreased range of the darkvision is in line with reductions to the racial DarkvisionDarkvision features.
Detect ThoughtsDetect Thoughts Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest (ConcentrationConcentration). There are dialogue prompts to use Detect Thoughts at specific instances. This became a Ritual Spell Icon.png ritual spell (and is cast as one in dialogue).
Enhance AbilityEnhance Ability Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest (ConcentrationConcentration). Bear's EnduranceBear's Endurance gives a fixed 7 temporary hit points (average of 2d6). Cat's GraceCat's Grace gives resistance to falling damage.
Enlarge/ReduceEnlarge/Reduce - The weight changes according to whether the caster uses EnlargeEnlarge or ReduceReduce, but the formula for determining the new weight of the affected creature is different.
EnthrallEnthrall Reduced Range: 6 m (20 ft) Range: 6 m (20 ft). -
Flame BladeFlame Blade Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest (ConcentrationConcentration). The blade can be equipped or unequipped, but cannot leave the caster's inventory.
Flaming SphereFlaming Sphere - The sphere is a summoned creature and moves using its own movement. It leaves behind a FireFire surface wherever it moves.
Gust of WindGust of Wind Reduced AoE: 12 m (40 ft) Line AoE: 12 m (40 ft) Line.

Reduced Duration Icons.png Duration: Instantaneous.

Since the spell is instantaneous, its direction cannot be changed after the fact. The Off BalanceOff Balance condition it imposes does not affect any creature's movement speed.
Heat MetalHeat Metal - If a target has a metal weapon and metal armour then this spell prioritizes the weapon. If armour is targeted, it cannot be removed.
Hold PersonHold Person - The spell itself is not changed, but the range for automatic critical hits is increased to 10 ft (3 m) for all Paralysed-type conditions which include this effect.
InvisibilityInvisibility Reduced Duration Icons.png Duration: 10 turns. -
KnockKnock - Cannot be used to open something which has had Arcane LockArcane Lock cast on it.
Lesser RestorationLesser Restoration - Can also remove disease conditions. (Deafened condition is not implemented.)
Magic WeaponMagic Weapon Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest (ConcentrationConcentration). Can be applied to a weapon that is already magical, and stacks with any magical bonuses from that weapon. Cannot be applied to ranged weapons.
Melf's Acid ArrowMelf's Acid Arrow Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft). Creates an AcidAcid surface in a 7 ft (2 m) radius circle on the ground under the target in addition to its other effects.
Mirror ImageMirror Image - The spell still grants three illusory duplicates, but each gives the caster a +3 bonus to AC. Each time an attack misses, one of these duplicates disappears.
Misty StepMisty Step Increased Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft). -
MoonbeamMoonbeam Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft).

Reduced AoE: 1 m (3 ft) Radius AoE: 1 m (3 ft) Radius.

Shapechangers do not have disadvantage on the saving throw, and are not reverted to their original form if they fail.
Pass Without TracePass Without Trace Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest (ConcentrationConcentration). -
Phantasmal ForcePhantasmal Force - Cannot be used as a general illusion spell, only for dealing damage. The target cannot make Investigation checks to end the spell. The flavourful aspects of the spell are replaced by changing the damage type on subsequent turns from PsychicPsychic to the damage type that affected it last.
Prayer of HealingPrayer of Healing - Casting time is instant, and can only be cast while out of combat.
Protection from PoisonProtection from Poison Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest. Neutralizes all poisons affecting the targets.
Scorching RayScorching Ray Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft). -
See InvisibilitySee Invisibility Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest. Does not provide the ability to see into the Ethereal Plane, which in general is not implemented in BG3.
Shadow BladeShadow Blade Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest. The summoned blade does not have the ThrownThrown property and does not require concentration to maintain. It can be unequipped (and remains in the character's inventory until the spell ends), but not dropped.
ShatterShatter - -
SilenceSilence Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft). Inflicts SilencedSilenced on affected entities. Although spell components are not implemented in BG3, some spells can explicitly be cast while Silenced; these are generally spells which lack verbal components in 5E.
Spiritual WeaponSpiritual Weapon - The weapon is a summoned creature. Upcasting the spell adds 8 HP for every 2 extra slot levels, in addition to the damage increase. Only one can be summoned by each caster at a time.

A limited set of weapon types are available: greataxe, greatsword, halberd, maul, spear, and trident. The weapon can use the weapon actions associated with the selected weapon type. However, the save DC for these is fairly low (fixed at 12) and they do not scale with the spell slot level or any of the caster's stats.

Spike GrowthSpike Growth Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft).

Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest (ConcentrationConcentration).

Warding BondWarding Bond Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest Does not end if the caster and the target move too far apart.
WebWeb Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest (ConcentrationConcentration). Creates a WebWeb surface which can be destroyed with fire damage. Although a Web does not cause falling damage if a creature falls onto it from any height, falling through one from a sufficient height does not prevent damage from impacting the ground beneath it.

The web surface applies EnwebbedEnwebbed, which has the same mechanical effects as RestrainedRestrained, except that the appropriate monsters are immune to it.

Third level spells[edit section | visual editor]

Changes to third level spells
Spell name Range and

duration changes

Other changes
Animate DeadAnimate Dead - The caster can choose between a zombie or skeleton with each cast, ignoring the condition of the remains. At higher levels the caster can raise more corpses, or choose to raise ghouls or flying ghouls instead. All creatures have different stat blocks than those in the Monster Manual (see the spell's page for details).
Beacon of HopeBeacon of Hope - -
Bestow CurseBestow Curse Decreased duration when upcast: 20 turns at level 4, 50 turns at level 5, 100 turns at level 6 (ConcentrationConcentration in all cases). When cast with a 5th or 6th level slot, the spell still requires concentration.
Blinding SmiteBlinding Smite - Concentration is not required to maintain the BlindedBlinded status on the target.
BlinkBlink - Ends concentration effects on others (e.g., HasteHaste, InvisibilityInvisibility) when ethereal.
Call LightningCall Lightning Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft).

Increased AoE: 2 m (7 ft) Radius AoE: 2 m (7 ft) Radius.

Reduced Duration Icons.png Duration: 10 turns.

Casting the spell does not involve creating a cloud, so it can be cast anywhere, including indoors.
CounterspellCounterspell - -
Crusader's MantleCrusader's Mantle - Also affects neutral creatures.
DaylightDaylight Reduced AoE: 50 m (167 ft) Radius AoE: 50 m (167 ft) Radius. The spell can only target a point or a weapon, but not other objects. The spell's light is considered sunlight; this is relevant for certain creature traits such as Sunlight SensitivitySunlight Sensitivity.
Elemental WeaponElemental Weapon - -
FearFear Reduced Duration Icons.png Duration: 3 turns. -
Feign DeathFeign Death Reduced Duration Icons.png Duration: 10 turns. The effect can be removed using the HelpHelp action.
FireballFireball Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft).

Reduced AoE: 4 m (13 ft) Radius AoE: 4 m (13 ft) Radius.

-
Gaseous FormGaseous Form Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest (ConcentrationConcentration). Does not reduce the target's movement speed. The game considers the target to be Tiny in size, which allows them to fit through small spaces.
Glyph of WardingGlyph of Warding Increased Range: 9 m (30 ft) Range: 9 m (30 ft). Fixed AoE: 4 m (13 ft) Radius AoE: 4 m (13 ft) Radius. Casting time reduced to 1 Action, making it useful in combat. The caster may select from the Explosive Runes option with any of the associated damage types, or use glyphs which cause creatures to fall asleep or get pushed away. There is no generic option to have the glyph trigger a spell of the caster's choice.
Grant FlightGrant Flight Reduced Duration Icons.png Duration: 10 turns. Renamed to avoid confusion with the FlyFly action. The target's movement speed increases to 60 ft (18 m) and they can fly between two points, but must end each move on the ground.
HasteHaste - The extra action from the HastenedHastened condition can be used to take any action, even multiple attacks with Extra AttackExtra Attack (except in honour mode, where only a single extra attack is possible).

The LethargicLethargic condition applied after the spell ends also prevents the target from taking reactions.

Hunger of HadarHunger of Hadar Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft). -
Hypnotic PatternHypnotic Pattern Reduced Duration Icons.png Duration: 2 turns.

Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft).

The effect can be ended with a Bonus Action.
Lightning ArrowLightning Arrow Reduced Duration Icons.png Duration: Instantaneous. Uses a ranged spell attack for the primary damage rather than being combined with a ranged weapon attack. If the attack misses, the target takes no damage. Does not cost a Bonus Action and does not require concentration. Does not function with Extra AttackExtra Attack.
Lightning BoltLightning Bolt - -
Mass Healing WordMass Healing Word Doesn't target, instead AoE: 18 m (60 ft) Radius AoE: 18 m (60 ft) Radius centred on caster. -
Plant GrowthPlant Growth Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft).

Reduced AoE: 6 m (20 ft) Radius AoE: 6 m (20 ft) Radius.

There is no option for the caster to choose degrees of movement restriction; creatures traversing the affected area on foot always expend quadruple movement. The spell ends if it is hit by any fire damage.
Protection from EnergyProtection from Energy Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest. -
Remove CurseRemove Curse - Attunement is not implemented in BG3, so there are no cursed items which require attunement.
RevivifyRevivify Increased Range: 9 m (30 ft) Range: 9 m (30 ft).

AoE: 9 m (30 ft) Radius AoE: 9 m (30 ft) Radius. The target returns to life with 1 hp at the location selected within the AOE.

No time limit. The condition of the body is not a factor; in this way Revivify functions more like the 9th level spell True Resurrection. If the character's body is lost upon death (e.g., by falling into a chasm), a blue flame representing them spawns in their place, and can be used as a target for Revivify. The spell can only be used on companions or the player character.
Sleet StormSleet Storm Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft).

Reduced AoE: 9 m (30 ft) Radius AoE: 9 m (30 ft) Radius.

Creates an IceIce surface in the area, which is not heavily obscured. Fire damage melts away the ice surface, but it returns if the caster continues to concentrate.
SlowSlow Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft). -
Speak with DeadSpeak with Dead Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest. Became a Ritual Spell Icon.png ritual spell. Can be recast for free while it lasts (so using it a second time from an item does not require a long rest or another scroll). Corpses that have substantial dialogue are highlighted in green while the spell lasts. The creature will still not talk with their killer, but one can usually get around this by using Disguise SelfDisguise Self. Each corpse can only be subject to the spell once; waiting 10 days does not allow it to be questioned again. The corpse is considered to have lost its mouth (and therefore cannot speak) if it was killed by acid, fire, lightning, necrotic, or radiant damage. Some corpses (e.g., mind flayers and myconids) communicate in ways other than speaking.
Spirit GuardiansSpirit Guardians Reduced AoE: 3 m (10 ft) Radius AoE: 3 m (10 ft) Radius.

Reduced Duration Icons.png Duration: 10 turns.

Alignment is not implemented in BG3; instead the damage type is chosen by the caster when the spell is cast.
Stinking CloudStinking Cloud Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft). Cannot be dispersed with Gust of WindGust of Wind or the like.
Vampiric TouchVampiric Touch - -
Warden of VitalityWarden of Vitality - Renamed (the 5E equivalent is Aura of Vitality).

Fourth level spells[edit section | visual editor]

Changes to fourth level spells
Spell name Range and

duration changes

Other changes
BanishmentBanishment Reduced Duration Icons.png Duration: 2 rounds turns. Does not have the secondary effect of permanently banishing extraplanar entities (e.g., celestials, fiends) at the end of the spell.
BlightBlight - -
ConfusionConfusion Reduced Duration Icons.png Duration: 3 turns.

Increased AoE: 6 m (20 ft) Radius AoE: 6 m (20 ft) Radius.

Does not affect allies.
Conjure Minor ElementalConjure Minor Elemental Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest (concentration not required). Renamed from plural name. Upcasting grants no benefit. Effect limited to 1–2 units.
Conjure Woodland BeingConjure Woodland Being Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest (concentration not required). Renamed from plural name. Upcasting grants no benefit. Effect limited to 1 dryad.
Death WardDeath Ward Increased Range: 1.5 m (5 ft) Range: 1.5 m (5 ft).

Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest.

Effect protecting from non-damaging instant death is removed.
Dimension DoorDimension Door Reduced Range: 50 m (167 ft) Range: 50 m (167 ft). Line of sight only. When teleporting with another creature, they must be Medium or smaller.
Dominate BeastDominate Beast - Upcasting grants no benefit. Target does not get AdvantageAdvantage on the save from being in combat.
Evard's Black TentaclesEvard's Black Tentacles Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft). Creatures must make Strength Saving ThrowStrength Saving Throws against the effect, which does not use an action.
Fire ShieldFire Shield Reduced Duration Icons.png Duration: 10 turns. Despite the tooltip, does not shed light. Cannot be dismissed as an action.
Freedom of MovementFreedom of Movement Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest. Also removes the StunnedStunned condition (in addition to ParalysedParalysed and RestrainedRestrained). Doesn't affect underwater movement, as there is none in BG3.
Grasping VineGrasping Vine - The vine is a summoned creature.
Greater InvisibilityGreater Invisibility - Whenever the affected creature does something that would end the basic InvisibilityInvisibility spell, it must make a StealthStealth check or end the spell. The DC of the Stealth check increases with each such action.
Guardian of FaithGuardian of Faith Reduced Duration Icons.png Duration: 10 turns. The guardian is a summoned creature which can make its attack (requiring a saving throw) on its turn. It also attacks (any number of times per round, not limited by Reactions) in retaliation to being attacked. It loses hit points when it deals damage, and the spell ends early if the caster dies.
Ice StormIce Storm Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft). -
Otiluke's Resilient SphereOtiluke's Resilient Sphere Reduced Duration Icons.png Duration: 3 turns. The interaction with DisintegrateDisintegrate is omitted.
Phantasmal KillerPhantasmal Killer Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft). Inflicts the Phantasmal KillerPhantasmal Killer condition, which includes both the fear effect and the ongoing psychic damage.
PolymorphPolymorph Reduced Duration Icons.png Duration: 5 turns. Excess damage does not carry over to the creature's hit points. Can only turn a creature into a sheep.
Staggering SmiteStaggering Smite Reduced Duration Icons.png Duration: 1 turn. This is part of the attack action, and only consumes the bonus action and spell slot if the attack hits. concentration is to maintain the Staggering SmiteStaggering Smite condition.
StoneskinStoneskin Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest (ConcentrationConcentration). -
Wall of FireWall of Fire Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft).

Increased AoE: 36 m (120 ft) Line AoE: 36 m (120 ft) Line.

There is no option to create a circular wall.

Fifth level spells[edit section | visual editor]

Changes to fifth level spells
Spell name Range and duration changes Other changes
Banishing SmiteBanishing Smite - This is part of the attack action, and only consumes the bonus action and spell slot if the attack hits. The concentration is to maintain the BanishedBanished condition.
CloudkillCloudkill Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft). The caster can manually reposition the cloud as an action.
Cone of ColdCone of Cold Reduced Range: 9 m (30 ft) Range: 9 m (30 ft). -
Conjure ElementalConjure Elemental Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft).

Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest (no concentration).

Limited to four specific types (one elemental of each type). When upcast to level 6, four stronger types become available. The conjured creature never goes hostile against those who summoned them since concentration is not required.
ContagionContagion - -
Destructive WaveDestructive Wave - -
Dispel Evil and GoodDispel Evil and Good - Also affects aberrations and elementals. Does not offer the option to send extraplanar creatures back to their home plane.
Dominate PersonDominate Person - Always grants full control over the target without using the caster's actions to do so. Can only be used on enemies.
Flame StrikeFlame Strike - Deals 1d6 more damage of each type. Both damage types are increased when upcast.
Greater RestorationGreater Restoration - Can also remove Cursed and Stunned conditions. Eliminates all such effects on the target.
Hold MonsterHold Monster Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft). The spell itself is not changed, but the range for automatic critical hits is increased to 10 ft (3 m) for all Paralysed-type conditions which include this effect.
Insect PlagueInsect Plague Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft). -
Mass Cure WoundsMass Cure Wounds - -
Planar BindingPlanar Binding Reduced Duration Icons.png Duration: 10 turns (ConcentrationConcentration). Reduced casting time: 1 Action. Greatly simplified; just charms the target and turns it into an allied NPC for the duration if it fails the save. Upcasting does not increase the duration.
SeemingSeeming Increased Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft). Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest. Same limited set of disguises as Disguise SelfDisguise Self. Can only be applied to the 4 members of the active party. Requires concentration.
TelekinesisTelekinesis Reduced Duration Icons.png Duration: 10 turns. Does not require spellcasting ability checks to be able to throw things. Throwing a creature requires the creature to fail a Strength Saving ThrowStrength Saving Throw.
Wall of StoneWall of Stone Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft). The stone panels are immune to PsychicPsychic damage and vulnerable to ForceForce and ThunderThunder damage.

Sixth level spells[edit section | visual editor]

Upcasting benefits are not listed for any sixth level spells, as it is not possible to acquire spell slots of 7th level or higher in the game.

Changes to sixth level spells
Spell Range and duration changes Other changes
Arcane GateArcane Gate Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft). Both portals can be anywhere within range.

Does not allow using a bonus action to rotate the portals.

Blade BarrierBlade Barrier Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft). -
Chain LightningChain Lightning Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft). Secondary targets can be any creature within range.
Circle of DeathCircle of Death Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft).

Reduced AoE: 9 m (30 ft) Radius AoE: 9 m (30 ft) Radius.

-
Create UndeadCreate Undead - Creates a single undead mummy without needing a corpse. No requirement that the spell be cast at night.
DisintegrateDisintegrate Reduced Range: 9 m (30 ft) Range: 9 m (30 ft). -
EyebiteEyebite -
  • The Asleep effect inflicts SleepingSleeping, which can be ended with a bonus action (shoveshove).
  • The Sickened effect inflicts Eyebite: SickenedEyebite: Sickened, which can be resisted with a CON Save (Spell save DC)CON Save (Spell save DC).
  • The Panicked effect inflicts FearfulFearful, which has no minimum distance before it allows a save.
Flesh to StoneFlesh to Stone Reduced Duration Icons.png Duration: 3 turns (ConcentrationConcentration). The PetrifiedPetrified condition is permanent as soon as it is applied; concentration is not needed afterwards.
Globe of InvulnerabilityGlobe of Invulnerability Increased Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft). Makes creatures and objects inside the sphere immune to all damage. In practice this means that the globe blocks non-magical ranged attacks from outside, but spells cast from outside can still impart non-damaging effects on creatures inside.
HarmHarm Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest. -
HealHeal - Has a secondary memory restoration effect if cast on The Dark Urge.
Heroes' FeastHeroes' Feast Increased Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft). Affected creatures' hit point maximum is increased by a fixed value of 12.
Otiluke's Freezing SphereOtiluke's Freezing Sphere Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft). -
Otto's Irresistible DanceOtto's Irresistible Dance - -
Planar AllyPlanar Ally Reduced Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest. Simplified into a typical summoning spell offering three options: Djinni. Deva, or Cambion.
SunbeamSunbeam - -
Wall of IceWall of Ice Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft). The frigid air left behind by a destroyed section of wall deals 10d6 ColdCold damage.
Wall of ThornsWall of Thorns Reduced Range: 18 m (60 ft) Range: 18 m (60 ft). In addition to taking damage, creatures which fail the Dexterity save while trying to move through the wall become EntangledEntangled.
Wind WalkWind Walk Increased Duration Icons.png Duration: Until Long rest. Affects all party members within range. The effect is identical to Gaseous FormGaseous Form.

See also[edit section | visual editor]